Before you order
Fabric & Ordering FAQ
Answers to common questions about buying fabric, choosing an option, and receiving your order from The Fabric Lot.
Ordering fabric
How do I order fabric by the yard?
Choose the exact fabric, color, and construction option on the product page, then enter the number of yards. Review the selected option and quantity in your cart before checkout. A matching rib option is a separate fabric choice; it is not automatically included with jersey, fleece, or French terry.
How long is one yard of fabric?
One yard is 36 inches (91.44 cm) measured along the length of the fabric. The width is a separate measurement shown in the listing. One yard of a 60-inch-wide fabric is not the same amount of material as one yard of a 45-inch-wide fabric.
How much fabric do I need?
Start with the yardage chart for your exact pattern size, view, and fabric width. Allow for any pattern adjustments, directional prints, repeat matching, and the shrinkage of the fabric you choose. Our yardage guide explains how to check the calculation. An estimate cannot replace laying out the pattern pieces.
Will my order be one continuous piece?
If one uninterrupted length is essential, contact us before ordering with the fabric, color, and required length so we can confirm what is available. Do not assume separate orders or separate cuts can be joined into one continuous piece.
Can I order a swatch before buying yardage?
Visit Swatches & samples and specify the product link and exact fabric option. Check the sample price and availability before ordering. For help finding the correct option, contact support@thefabriclot.com.
What is the minimum for wholesale?
Wholesale starts at one full roll; the yardage per roll varies by fabric. Use our wholesale inquiry form with the fabric, color, approximate quantity, and timing. Availability and pricing need confirmation for your request.
Choosing the right fabric
What is GSM?
GSM means grams per square meter: the mass of a fixed area of fabric. It describes weight, not thickness, softness, opacity, stretch, or quality on its own. Read our guide to GSM and ounces before comparing listings that use different units.
Are jersey, French terry, fleece, and ribbing the same?
No. They describe different fabric constructions or finishes. Jersey is commonly used for T-shirts; French terry usually has loops on its reverse; sweatshirt fleece commonly has a brushed reverse; ribbing has a rib structure often used for cuffs and neckbands. Actual fiber content, weight, stretch, and recovery vary. See our knit fabric comparison.
Does matching ribbing come with the main fabric?
No. If a listing offers Cotton Jersey, Fleece, French Terry, Matching Jersey, or Matching Rib as separate options, select and order each fabric you need separately. Check the selected construction before adding it to your cart. Read our ribbing guide for fit and recovery considerations.
Will a color look exactly like the photo?
Screens, lighting, and photography can change how a shade appears. Color names alone do not establish an exact match between different fabrics. A swatch of each exact option is the best starting point for a color-sensitive project. For matching pieces, ask about the current fabric before placing a larger order.
Why do some options show a product overview photo?
Some options do not yet have a verified individual photo. An overview image may show several colors or related fabrics; it should not be treated as a close-up of the selected option. Check the selected color and construction text, and request a swatch if you need to confirm the appearance.
Should I wash or test the fabric before cutting?
Check the care guidance for the specific fabric and the finished item first. Test a swatch with the intended care method to assess shrinkage, color, and surface changes. Do not apply one washing or drying method to every fiber or finish. If a listing does not specify care, ask before treating your full cut.
What if the color or quantity I need is unavailable?
Select the exact option to see its current availability. For a larger quantity or an unavailable option, contact us with the product link, color, construction, and required yardage. A restock date or continuous length is not guaranteed until confirmed.
Shipping & pickup
How much does shipping cost?
Free domestic shipping is available on orders of $75 or more. Other available UPS and USPS rates are calculated at checkout and include a 9% handling adjustment. Available services and the final shipping charge appear before payment. See our shipping policy.
When will my order arrive?
Processing normally takes 1–3 business days, excluding weekends and holidays; busy periods may take longer. Estimated transit is 2–4 business days within California and 2–7 within the United States. Processing and transit are separate, and these estimates are not guarantees. Shipped orders receive tracking by email.
Do you ship internationally?
International shipping is available to selected destinations. Enter your delivery address at checkout to see available services and charges. The domestic free-shipping offer does not apply to international orders. See the current shipping policy.
Can I pick up my order in Los Angeles?
Choose free local pickup at checkout when offered for your order. Pickup is at 1460 Naud St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Orders are usually ready in 24 hours; wait for the ready-for-pickup notification and collection instructions before visiting. Bring your confirmation email. See pickup details.
Returns & help
Can I return cut fabric?
Cut yardage, custom or special orders, sale items, and gift cards are not returnable for a change of mind. For eligible items, request a return within 14 days of delivery; they must be unused, uncut, and in original condition, with proof of purchase. Contact us for approval before sending anything back. See the full return policy.
What should I do if fabric arrives damaged or incorrect?
Email support@thefabriclot.com with your order number, photographs, and a description of the problem. Report shipment damage within 48 hours of delivery. For approved returns involving wrong fabric or yardage, damage, or defects, we cover return shipping and provide a prepaid label. Follow the instructions we provide before returning anything.
How can I get help choosing fabric or checking an order?
Use our contact form or email support@thefabriclot.com. For fabric advice, include the product link, exact color and construction, quantity, and intended project. For an existing order, include your order number.